Lanzarote is one of Spain’s Canary Islands, located off the coast of West Africa. It’s a stunning volcanic island with a rugged landscape, warm weather and clear blue waters. As a travel destination, Lanzarote has a lot to offer, from relaxed beach days to thrilling outdoor activities. In this guide, I’ll take you through the best things to see and do on the island, including hidden gems that most tourists miss.
Introduction to Lanzarote
Lanzarote is the easternmost of the Canary Islands and is known for its stunning natural beauty. It’s a volcanic island that eruptions have shaped, and lava flows over millions of years. Despite its rugged landscape, Lanzarote is home to several beautiful beaches, making it a popular tourist destination.
The island’s capital, Arrecife, is a bustling port town with a rich history. It’s a great place to visit if you want to experience some local culture and sample traditional Canarian cuisine. Lanzarote is also home to several small villages and towns that are worth exploring, each with their own unique character.
How to get to Lanzarote – flights from the UK
Getting to Lanzarote is easy, with several airlines offering direct flights from the UK. You can fly from most major airports, including London, Manchester, Birmingham and Glasgow. The flight time is around 4 hours, depending on your departure airport.
If you’re looking to save money, it’s worth checking out budget airlines like Ryanair or easyJet. They often have great deals on flights to Lanzarote, especially if you book in advance. Alternatively, you can book a package holiday that includes flights and accommodation.
Best time to visit Lanzarote
Lanzarote has a warm climate all year round, which makes it a great destination for sun worshippers. However, the best time to visit depends on what you want to do. If you’re looking to spend most of your time on the beach, then the summer months (June to August) are the best time to go.
If you want to avoid the crowds and enjoy milder temperatures, then the shoulder seasons (April to May and September to November) are a good choice. The winter months (December to February) are the least busy, but it can be a bit chilly and windy.
Top tourist attractions on Lanzarote
There are plenty of tourist attractions on Lanzarote, from natural wonders to man-made ones. One of the most popular attractions is Timanfaya National Park, which is home to a vast volcanic landscape. You can take a guided tour of the park, which includes a visit to the El Diablo restaurant, where food is cooked using geothermal heat.
Another must-see attraction is the Cueva de los Verdes, a network of underground caves that were formed by lava flows. The caves are open for guided tours and are a fascinating insight into the island’s geological history.
If you’re interested in art, then a visit to the Fundacion Cesar Manrique is a must. The foundation was created by the eponymous artist, who was born on Lanzarote. It features a museum, art gallery and several sculptures, all set within a stunning volcanic landscape.
Hidden Gems of Lanzarote
While the tourist attractions are fantastic, Lanzarote has several hidden gems that most tourists miss. One of these is the Mirador del Rio, a viewpoint that offers stunning views of the island. It’s located on the northern tip of Lanzarote and is accessible by car or bus.
Another hidden gem is the town of Teguise, which was the island’s capital until the 19th century. It’s a beautiful town with cobbled streets and traditional Canarian architecture. On Sundays, the town hosts a fantastic market where you can pick up local crafts and souvenirs.
Finally, the Jameos del Agua is a series of underground caves that have been turned into an art and culture centre. It’s a unique attraction that’s well worth a visit, especially if you’re interested in architecture and design.
Outdoor activities to try on Lanzarote
Lanzarote is a great destination for outdoor activities, with plenty of opportunities for hiking, cycling and water sports. One of the most popular things to do is to hike up to the summit of Montana Roja, a volcanic cone that offers stunning views of the island.
If you’re a fan of water sports, then you’ll love Lanzarote’s beaches. The island is famous for its windsurfing and kitesurfing, with several schools offering lessons for beginners. You can also go scuba diving or snorkelling to explore the island’s underwater world.
Finally, if you’re looking for a more relaxed activity, then why not try a round of golf? Lanzarote has several excellent golf courses, including the Costa Teguise Golf Club and the Lanzarote Golf Resort.
Beaches to visit on Lanzarote
Lanzarote is home to several beautiful beaches, each with their own unique character. One of the most popular is Playa Blanca, a long stretch of golden sand that’s perfect for sunbathing and swimming. It’s also home to several beach bars and restaurants, making it a great place to spend the day.
Another popular beach is Famara, which is located on the northwest coast of the island. It’s a huge beach with strong waves, making it popular with surfers. If you’re not a surfer, then you can still enjoy the stunning views of the cliffs and ocean.
Finally, the Papagayo beaches are a series of secluded coves that are perfect for a romantic getaway. They’re located on the southern tip of the island and are accessible by car or boat.
Traditional food and drink to try on Lanzarote
Lanzarote is famous for its traditional Canarian cuisine, which features fresh seafood, locally grown vegetables and lots of spices. One of the most popular dishes is papas arrugadas, which are tiny salted potatoes that are served with mojo sauce.
Another local delicacy is gofio, a flour made from roasted grains that’s often used in stews and soups. If you’re looking for a sweet treat, then try the bienmesabe, a dessert made from ground almonds, honey and egg yolks.
When it comes to drinks, Lanzarote is known for its wine. The island has several vineyards that produce excellent white and red wines. If you’re a fan of beer, then try the Dorada, which is a local beer that’s brewed on the island.
Accommodation options on Lanzarote
Lanzarote has plenty of accommodation options to suit all budgets and preferences. If you’re looking for a luxury stay, then check out the Princesa Yaiza Suite Hotel Resort in Playa Blanca. It’s a five-star hotel with several swimming pools, a spa and several restaurants.
If you’re travelling on a budget, then there are plenty of hostels and guesthouses to choose from. The Casa de Hilario in Yaiza is a charming guesthouse that’s located in a traditional Canarian house. It’s a great place to stay if you want to experience some local culture.
Finally, if you’re travelling with a group or family, then consider renting a villa. Lanzarote has plenty of villas to choose from, many of which come with private swimming pools and stunning views.
Conclusion – why Lanzarote should be your next travel destination
Lanzarote is a beautiful island that has something for everyone. Whether you’re a beach lover, an outdoor enthusiast or a foodie, you’ll find plenty to see and do on the island. With its warm climate, stunning natural beauty and rich culture, it’s no wonder that Lanzarote is such a popular holiday destination.
So why not book your next trip to Lanzarote today? With direct flights from the UK and plenty of accommodation options to choose from, it’s never been easier to explore this enchanting Canary Island.
